Same-sex marriage decision expected soon

In Michigan and all around the United States, gay and lesbian couples are fighting battles to be able to marry legally. The division on this issue in the country is great with some states allowing legal same-sex marriages and others staunchly opposing such non-traditional unions. Michigan law currently allows for cohabitation agreements but not legal marriage.

That, however, may change very soon. A long legal battle on the issue of same-sex marriage in the state of Michigan is about to culminate with the decision of a United States District Judge, expected to be handed down this month. A trial in the matter concluded after nine days in the courtroom with emotional arguments from both sides. Some are urging the decision to be based upon parental fitness while others are saying it is about general equality.

The latter group states that the Equal Protection Clause in the U.S. Constitution should be the grounds upon which gay and lesbian couples are allowed to be legally married, ending discrimination against them. They state that not every gay or lesbian couple wishes to become parents, just as with heterosexual couples. For those that do, marriage would make that more possible. In a news report on the case, the judge was cited as saying the decision will be a very difficult one.

Gay and lesbian residents in Michigan and elsewhere will be watching for the new decision. Those interested in learning more about other options pertaining to gay and lesbian adoption or cohabitation agreements may consider talking to an attorney with experience in this area.

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